Lipid-based nanomedicines for the treatment of bacterial respiratory infections: current state and new perspectives

Nanomedicine (Lond). 2024 Feb;19(4):325-343. doi: 10.2217/nnm-2023-0243. Epub 2024 Jan 25.

Abstract

The global threat posed by antimicrobial resistance demands urgent action and the development of effective drugs. Lower respiratory tract infections remain the deadliest communicable disease worldwide, often challenging to treat due to the presence of bacteria that form recalcitrant biofilms. There is consensus that novel anti-infectives with reduced resistance compared with conventional antibiotics are needed, leading to extensive research on innovative antibacterial agents. This review explores the recent progress in lipid-based nanomedicines developed to counteract bacterial respiratory infections, especially those involving biofilm growth; focuses on improved drug bioavailability and targeting and highlights novel strategies to enhance treatment efficacy while emphasizing the importance of continued research in this dynamic field.

Keywords: antimicrobial resistance; bacterial respiratory infections; biofilm; drug delivery; lipid nanoparticles; nanomedicine; targeting.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bacterial Infections* / drug therapy
  • Biofilms
  • Humans
  • Lipids / therapeutic use
  • Nanomedicine
  • Respiratory Tract Infections* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Lipids